5 TIPS FOR FINDING THE BEST SUMMER VACATION DESTINATIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES

BY BETH RUSH

Summertime brings warm weather, making it a great time for a trip. Accessibility is critical when finding vacation destinations for individuals with disabilities. Consider these five tips to find accessible locations for your summer travels.

1. SENSORY ACCOMMODATIONS

Summer vacations mean it's time for fun, but your family member with disabilities could feel uncomfortable if in an overstimulating environment. Sensory accommodations should be a priority when researching places to visit. Find attractions with special modifications to make the experience more enjoyable. Ideal summer destinations should include sensory rooms or special accommodations for these sensitivities. For instance, some amusement parks include sensory bags with noise-reducing headphones, fidget toys and lap pads. These tools stimulate their senses and maintain calmness.

2. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY

Another significant part of your research should include wheelchair accessibility. Everyone wants to explore and feel free, whether inside an amusement park or the woods. Find locations that maximize convenience for those with physical disabilities, featuring wide ramps, doorways and elevators. These amenities make your experience more manageable. If family members with disabilities want outdoor vacation destinations, search for places prioritizing paved trails, sizable bathrooms and accessible campsites. 

3. HEALTH CARE CONSIDERATIONS

While vacation destinations for individuals with disabilities are fun, some are far from health care S facilities. Prioritize proximity to hospitals or other institutions carrying the medical resources you need for your family member. Large cities typically have more health care access than rural areas. Another health care consideration you should make is insurance. Review your plan to see your deductible and plan accord ingly with an emergency fund. For instance, a $1,000 deductible means you pay $1,000 out of pocket before the insurance company covers the rest. Unexpected situations could arise, so it's important to prepare for emergencies.